“I’m definitely not lying,” Mia said with matter-of-fact sincerity, gesturing expressively. “Mommy taught me Spanish and Italian because my abuela Rosa lives in Rome. Mrs. Peterson taught me French. And I learned Korean and improved my English from YouTube videos and library books because I want to communicate with everyone.”
The laughter grew louder. “Mia, seven-year-old children simply do not speak five languages fluently,” Alexander said.
“Oh, but I do,” Mia insisted, crossing her arms. “Would you like me to prove it? I can tell you exactly what your Korean business partners are really saying in their private emails. Sometimes adults say different things in different languages when they think no one will understand.”
“Elena, please remove your daughter immediately,” Alexander’s patience was wearing thin.
Before Elena could move, Alexander’s smartphone erupted with urgent ringtones. The caller ID flashed “Seoul Office” in bold red letters.
He answered with forced calm. “Voss speaking.”